Family of Myrtle Beach Shooting Suspect Claims Self-Defense

The family of a man charged in a deadly road rage incident in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, over Memorial Day weekend claims the suspect acted in self-defense. Anthony Garner of Albermarle, North Carolina, is facing murder and weapon possession charges after 31-year-old Cedrick Reddick of Columbia was shot to death on May 25, 2024.

Garner’s Family Argues Self-Defense

In a distressing series of events, Garner’s family asserts that he was protecting them after they were “violently attacked” during their vacation. “We didn’t know if we were going to live or die,” stated Ashley Garner, Anthony’s wife. Remaining shaken by the incident, Nuvia, their daughter, provided further details about the night the shooting occurred. She claims Reddick attempted to cut in front of their vehicle, initiating the fateful confrontation. “That night, he did what he didn’t want to have to do, but he defended our family,” Nuvia reported.

Contradicting Accounts

While the garner’s family maintains the claim of self-defense, arrest documents mask a different story. These documents claim Garner was struck in the face by an unidentified associate of Reddick following the road rage incident. They further state that Reddick intervened, attempting to mediate the situation before Garner shot him multiple times.

‘Stand Your Ground’ Law

In spite of the charges against Anthony Garner, his family is steadfast in their belief that he had every right to defend himself under South Carolina’s ‘Stand Your Ground’ law. The law allows individuals to use force in self-defense when in fear of grave bodily harm or death. “Anthony probably right now could be the picture of ‘Stand Your Ground’ because that’s all he did,” declared Ashley Garner.

Garner’s Current Site

Garner is currently held at J Reuben Long Detention Center, and there has been no bond set. The date for his next court appearance remains undecided. Several critical questions linger as the family seeks to raise funds for legal representation, hoping that Anthony’s case will be dismissed.

A Family Left in Limbo

In the interim, the Garner family expresses the profound toll the situation has imposed. Their lives have been upended, with Anthony, the primary provider, behind bars. As Nuvia prepares for college, her family navigates the harrowing experience while longing for a semblance of normalcy. “We really miss him, we need him to get back, we need him, our community needs him,” said Ashley Garner in a heartrending plea.